Bachelor of Science (Technology)
The Bachelor of Science (Technology) (BSc(Tech)) was the first degree of its kind in New Zealand and offers a unique approach to study. The BSc(Tech) is a flexible, job-oriented degree, which provides you with the necessary practical experience to bridge the gap between study and the workplace.
Move into the workplace with a BSc(Tech) from Waikato and you’ll find it looks familiar. That’s because you will already have spent 12 months of your degree gaining work experience and being paid for your efforts. Your first stint in the field will be for three months in your second year, followed by another nine months in your third year.
During your practical experience, you will build connections with potential employers that will pay off when it’s time to look for a job. Your hands-on experience will add credibility in your interviews.
You will be doing a flexible degree that gives you time to think about where you want to focus your attention. The BSc(Tech) includes management papers as well as science and technology papers so you’ll have a good understanding of the business of science by the time you graduate.
BSc(Tech) Benefits
- Large practical component and small laboratory classes in most subjects.
- Internationally recognised degree taught by expert staff.
- Paid work placements to suit your interests.
- 100% of graduates actively seeking employment find it within six months of graduating.
Majors
- Animal Behaviour
- Biochemistry
- Biological Sciences
- Biotechnology
- Chemistry
- Computer Science
- Earth Sciences
- Electronics
- Environmental Planning
- Environmental Sciences
- Materials and Processing
- Physics
A second major can also be selected from the majors offered by the School of Science & Engineering and other Faculty and Schools of Studies. Please consult with your School of Studies to see how this can fit into your programme.
BSc(Tech) Career Opportunities
- Biotechnologist
- Computer Network
- Administrator
- Conservation Officer
- Exploration Geologist
- Forensic Technician
- Laboratory Technologist
- Quality Assurance
- Manager
- Research Assistant
- Software Developer
- Systems Analyst
Specialisations
Within the BSc(Tech) you may choose to specialise in:
Agribusiness
The Agribusiness specialisation introduces agribusiness in New Zealand and internationally, sustainable agricultural systems, and international marketing for this industry. This specialisation complements a number of majors in which a knowledge of the particular issues confronting agribusiness enterprises and the sector in general would be an advantage.
Agricultural and Biosystems
Agricultural and Biosystems provides an agricultural focus to studies, preparing students for careers in agritechnology companies and organisations.
Science International
Science International combines a science major with study in Chinese, French, German, Japanese or Spanish. Science graduates who are familiar with the language and customs of other countries are of particular value to export-oriented industries.
Te Pūtaiao me ngā Take Māori (Science and Te Reo)
There is a fast-growing need for science graduates who are also fluent Māori language speakers. This specialisation enables students to pursue a science degree in a major subject while extending their knowledge of Māori language and culture.
Within the Biological Sciences major you may choose to specialise in: Restoration Ecology.
Within the Environmental Planning major you may choose to specialise in: Economics, Public Policy, or Resources and Environmental Planning.
Within the Environmental Sciences major you may choose to specialise in: Environmental Microbiology, Environmental Modelling, Land and Freshwater Environments, or Marine Sciences.
Practical Experience
A total of 12 months’ work experience is a component of this degree. The Cooperative Education Unit actively seeks and oversees this placement, ensuring the quality and relevance of your work experience.
Entry Requirements
If you have New Zealand University Entrance, you will be guaranteed admission to this degree. All other applications will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Some papers have specific entry requirements and if you do not have the required background you may be directed to take certain papers in your first year of study.
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
The School of Computing and Mathematical Sciences offers challenge exams that give outstanding students credit for 100 level papers in Computer Science, Mathematics and Statistics. By passing the exams, high-achieving students can be given direct access to some 200 level papers.
Scholarships
Science Admission Scholarships, Computer Science Scholarship Perry Foundation Undergraduate Scholarship, The Sir Edmund Hillary Scholarship.
For more information, visit www.waikato.ac.nz/scholarships



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